To recognize the Mi’kmaq people, their language and the significant geographical location, motorists travelling to Cape Breton across the Canso causeway will be welcomed by a new sign in Mi’kmaq that reads, Pjila’si Unama’kik.
At a ceremony earlier today, Premier Rankin, along with Mi’kmaq elders and chiefs, Brenda Chisholm-Beaton, mayor of Port Hawkesbury, and guests unveiled the prototype sign. The actual sign will be installed on the far east entrance to the island next week.
“The installation of this sign on the causeway shows how we are working together towards reconciliation.” said Chief Leroy Denny, chairperson, Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey.
“The Mi’kmaw language is vital to our existence. It is the foundation to understanding who we are. Using the original place names gives all Nova Scotians and visitors a better understanding of the landscape here in Mi’kma’ki. Unama’ki is the land of the fog.”
There are other areas of the province with Mi’kmaq signs to help celebrate and teach people about the history, language, and geographical area.
“I am a survivor of the Shubenacadie Indian residential school. As a child of three years old, I was forbidden to speak my Mi’kmaw language.” said Ma’git Poulette, Mi’kmaw Elder, We’koqma’q.
“I lost my language and fought hard to relearn it and make sure my children spoke it. Today, to see people welcomed to Unama’ki, in my language, when they cross the causeway is a dream come true. Ketu’ mui’walkik nike’, pitui kukumijinaqi’k, pitui kniskamijinaqi’k, aq msit kikmanaqi’k nikanitapmi’k wa’so’q.Ula eymulti’kw Unama’kik kiskuk, ml’kikleiwanej nekmowok ukamlamuninaq. Our ancestors hear us.”
Motorists can expect to see the sign when travelling to Cape Breton next week.